Hey, ladies! I am currently applying to library science programs, but the one that I really love is Simmons College's Archives/History degree. I have a 3.77 GPA and should have really solid recommendations
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This seems...really long. Detail is important for these sorts of things, but this might be a little too much. I'd cut out the "ly" words (particularly, especially, frequently, etc.) so it doesn't seem like filler. Also, there seems to be a chunk missing from the third-to-last paragraph.
Definitely don't start it out with how you love books/to read. That's pretty much the start of everyone's personal statement, as well as cover letter later....
Other thoughts: I would expand more on the second half of your first paragraph. How will those two degrees mean better access to archives for specific socioeconomic groups? Be specific.
Agreed. Also this reads more like a job-application letter than anything.
Also: " I still love books, but my fundamental motivation for pursuing a dual Master’s of Library Science with a concentration in archives and a History degree at Simmons College has evolved to reflect my belief in the important social obligation of information access for those who are hindered by limiting socioeconomic backgrounds, by which an Archives Librarian can contribute by ensuring that materials and manuscripts are efficiently and effectively processed for public consumption and working with outreach programs and digitization projects."
That's a hell of a LONG sentence. Pare it down. Get down to the essentials, to the bones.
This is exactly what I was going to say. I understand the change over time aspect, but starting out with the world's #1 LIS SOP "don't", even if you expand on it later, is a big no no in my book.
This profession is about information. Since you are concerned about access for a particular population, use that as a focal point. Use that as a way to get your readers attention. What are you going to do once you have a degree from Simmons? How will Simmons' program help you accomplish your professional goals.
Try to get to your point in five paragraphs. Intro, content/content/content, conclusion. That's all you are going to need. Pick specific experiences to highlight - they will see the rest on your resume.
The books thing has already been addressed by previous commenters. However, a lot of hiring managers would sigh because they hear that all the time. A connection to a love of information is a much more important thing to have nowadays.
You sound like a well qualified candidate. Don't stress out over this!
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Titles and departments shouldn't be capitalized
I'd lose the teamwork paragraph
The last paragraph is good
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Also: " I still love books, but my fundamental motivation for pursuing a dual Master’s of Library Science with a concentration in archives and a History degree at Simmons College has evolved to reflect my belief in the important social obligation of information access for those who are hindered by limiting socioeconomic backgrounds, by which an Archives Librarian can contribute by ensuring that materials and manuscripts are efficiently and effectively processed for public consumption and working with outreach programs and digitization projects."
That's a hell of a LONG sentence. Pare it down. Get down to the essentials, to the bones.
Reply
Reply
Reply
Try to get to your point in five paragraphs. Intro, content/content/content, conclusion. That's all you are going to need. Pick specific experiences to highlight - they will see the rest on your resume.
The books thing has already been addressed by previous commenters. However, a lot of hiring managers would sigh because they hear that all the time. A connection to a love of information is a much more important thing to have nowadays.
You sound like a well qualified candidate. Don't stress out over this!
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